ESD Presents Robert Cohan: Lecture- Brief History of Robert Cohan

Join us for a one-hour lecture on the life and legacy of Sir Robert Cohan CBE, one of the dance world’s most influential figures and the founding figure of British contemporary dance. Led by Paul R W. Jackson, this talk, using unique materials, will explore Cohan’s groundbreaking contributions to contemporary dance, including his pioneering work with the Martha Graham Dance Company, the founding of the London Contemporary Dance Theatre, to his glorious Indian Summer of creativity through his work with the Yorke Dance Project.


Paul RW Jackson, author of The Last Guru: Robert Cohan’s life in dance from Martha Graham to LCDT will guide you through key moments of Cohan’s career, highlighting his innovative choreography, artistic philosophy, and lasting impact on the dance world. The lecture offers a fascinating overview of Cohan’s extraordinary journey up until his death aged 95 in 2021.This is an unmissable opportunity for dance enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone interested in the history of contemporary dance. There will also be an opportunity to purchase The Last Guru, signed by the author.

About Paul R W. Jackson

Newcastle born Paul RW. Jackson, formerly Head and music and dance at Northumbria University and Reader in Choreography and Dance at the University of Winchester, has had a long international career in dance and music, working as a dancer, choreographer, educator, and pianist. He has collaborated with renowned figures from Martha Graham and Merce Cunningham to Sir Richard Alston and Sir Robert Cohan with whom he worked closely for the last 15 years of his life.


Image:
Cohan Rehearsing. Anthony Crickmay supplied by the Sir Robert Cohan Dance Legacy with permission of the V&A Museum and Abderrahim Crickmay Charitable Settlement